WHAT WE DO

Our programs

Rescue ≠ freedom

To experience true flourishing and avoid re-victimization, women need safe housing, dignifying work, and an effective support system. North Star’s programs provide the support and time needed to move towards a sustainable and independent future.

RESTORATION PROGRAM

the HARBOR| the rEFUGE

Since 2017, North Star Initiative (NSI) provides strengths-based, trauma-informed care in its long-term program where residents access resources and support to meet their individual needs and goals. Our team provides a 24/7 presence to our residents, along with on-site classes, therapy groups, and life skills development. Since 2024, NSI operates this program in both Lancaster County (The Harbor) and Berks County (The Refuge).

PHASE 1

RESTORATION

  • Acclimation

  • Assessing needs

  • Goal setting

90 DAYS

PHASE 2

PREPARATION

  • Structured programming

  • Life skills training

3-6 MONTHS

PHASE 3

TRANSITIONAL

  • Implementing life skills

  • Working part-time

6-9 MONTHS

PHASE 4

EXIT

  • Working full time

  • Saving for independent living

9-12 MONTHS

DO YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW NEED HELP?

REFFERAL INFO
A person pouring liquid from a small metal pitcher into a large metal container on a wooden surface.
Women preparing food with oranges and greens on a kitchen countertop.
People sitting at a wooden table with cups and an open book, engaging in conversation.
A woman sitting on a white chair in a bedroom, looking at a large photo album, with a bedroom desk, monitor, lamp, and various items in the background.

CRISIS CARE

EMERGENCY placement program (epp)

In 2024, North Star Initiative’s community funded the creation of a new Emergency Placement Program (EPP) to serve survivors with immediate need. The Emergency Placement Program opened Spring 2025.

A modern multi-story house with white vertical siding, large windows with black frames, a stone foundation, and a black asphalt parking area with white parking lines.
A woman with long dark hair and a big smile sitting at a table with children around her, in a well-lit room with a window.
A group of people sitting around a red wooden table having a discussion in a meeting room, with a whiteboard filled with handwritten notes in the background.

AWARENESS + ADVOCACY

Education

Raising awareness and providing advocacy through education is essential to support survivors, prevent trafficking, and create a safer future. We serve our community by presenting educational seminars to churches, civic organizations, schools, and business associations. Presentations can be customized based on the setting, audience, needs of your organization, and specific questions you may have. Fill out the form to tell us more about your interests or event, and we will work with you to coordinate the details. By learning the facts about trafficking, we can coordinate our efforts to end it

Upcoming Events →

Have a Presentation or Speaking Engagement Request?

A woman with short blonde hair and glasses standing at a table with North Star Initiative promotional materials, talking to two women sitting behind the table. The table has a black tablecloth with the organization’s name on it, and there is a clothing rack with shirts beside the table. A banner with a woman’s photo and the words "SEE ME" is visible, and a decorative floral arch is in the background.
Panel discussion at the 'Welcome to the Battle' event with five women and one man on a stage with musical instruments and a large screen displaying the event title.